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Beef Onion Stir-fry Recipe


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4.3 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Beef Onion Stir-fry recipe features tender flank steak marinated with a blend of baking soda, cornstarch, and oyster sauce, then quickly stir-fried with sweet and savory onions in a flavorful soy-based sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect quick Asian-inspired dinner that can be served over rice.


Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade

  • 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
  • 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon water

For the Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons ketchup
  • 2 teaspoons oyster sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup water

For Stir-frying

  • 2 tablespoons oil (divided)
  • 10 ounces small onions, sliced into wedges (about 3 small onions)


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with baking soda, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon oil, 1 teaspoon oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon water. Mix thoroughly until the marinade is absorbed into the meat. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for best flavor and tenderizing effects.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: While the beef marinates, mix together the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, ketchup, 2 teaspoons oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and 1/4 cup water in a small bowl. Set this sauce mixture aside.
  3. Cook the Beef: Heat a wok over high heat until it begins to smoke. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and spread the marinated beef evenly in the wok. Allow the beef to sear undisturbed for 30 seconds to 1 minute until browned on one side. Then stir-fry the beef for another 15 to 30 seconds until about 75% cooked. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
  4. Stir-fry the Onions: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the hot wok, then add the sliced onion wedges. Stir-fry the onions for 60 to 90 seconds until they are seared and slightly blistered. Remove the onions from the wok and set aside with the beef.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Pour the prepared sauce into the wok and bring it to a simmer over high heat. Let it simmer for about 15 seconds, then return the beef and onions to the wok. Stir everything together and cook for another 30 seconds to fully combine the flavors and finish cooking the beef.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, ideally over steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Notes

  • For tender beef, slice the flank steak thinly against the grain and allow adequate marinating time.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.
  • This stir-fry is best served fresh; leftovers may lose texture but can be reheated gently.
  • Feel free to substitute small onions with pearl onions or shallots if desired.
  • Use a well-seasoned wok or a large heavy skillet to ensure even high heat cooking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian